6 Fascinating Facts About State Birds

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Northern Cardinal is a Popular Pick

The northern cardinal gets top honors among state birds, representing seven states total: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia. The Western meadowlark and mockingbird are also popular choices.

Take our state birds quiz to see how many you can name.

Hungry Gulls to the Rescue in Utah

Utah selected the California gull as its state bird after its heroic eating efforts in 1848, which saved many Mormon settlers from losing their crops to an insect plague.

Do you know the national flower, bird and tree of the United States?

Courtesy Daniel Lavorgna

Maine’s Chickadee Confusion

Though Maine is home to two species of chickadee (the common black-capped and the elusive boreal), the state’s bird choice is officially listed as simply “the chickadee.” So Maine bird lovers can take their pick of these small songbirds.

You have to see these 20 incredibly cute chickadee photos!

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Hawaii’s Bird Gets a Boost

Good news! One state bird was able to move off the endangered species list. Hawaii’s nene population is recovering thanks to conservation efforts.

Discover 20 types of ducks to look for in across America.

Courtesy Dana Nelson

Standalone State Birds

Nineteen bird species represent only one state each, including the greater roadrunner (New Mexico), common loon (Minnesota) and brown pelican (Louisiana).

Find out which species is the most commonly seen bird in every state.

Courtesy Larry Chance

The History of State Birds

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs gets credit for first launching the idea of adopting state birds during the 1920s.

Next, learn which brainy birds are America’s smartest bird species.